The Healing Power of Holy Basil
Holy basil health benefits have been used for centuries as an all-natural remedy for a variety of ailments. From anxiety and diabetes to high cholesterol and stress, holy basil is a powerful herb with a long history of providing relief.
Shashidhara halady, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Let’s take a closer look at why holy basil is so beneficial and how it can help you improve your overall wellness.
What Is Holy Basil?
Holy basil is a powerful herb that contains several compounds which are thought to have medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory effects and improved mental clarity through influencing certain neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and GABA.
There are many ways to use this healing herb ranging from drinking tea made from fresh or dried leaves daily to taking supplements like tinctures or capsules depending on what works best for you!
Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) is an aromatic plant native to India and other parts of South Asia. It is an important symbol in Hinduism, where it is worshipped in temples as “the incomparable one” or “the queen of herbs”.
It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, diabetes, high cholesterol, stress, headaches, fever and digestive issues.
The leaves are greenish-purple in color and have a sweet, slightly spicy taste that is similar to cloves.
Holy Basil vs Traditional Basil Seasoning
Holy Basil and the traditional basil seasoning we sprinkle in our pasta dishes and pesto sauces are two very different ingredients, but they do have something in common. Both are fragrant culinary delights related to the mint family of herbs, with its vibrant grass-green leaves and slightly sweet aroma.
Holy Basil is known to be a powerful treatment for inflammation, while regular basil seasoning provides us with the essential herbaceous boost we need to make our favorite Italian dishes come alive.
So, while they are not twins, these herbs and spices undeniably share similar qualities that make them beloved by chefs (and backyard gardeners) around the world.
However, what we are interested in here are Holy Basil’s health benefits, so let’s move on…
Overview of Holy Basil Health Benefits
Holy basil contains several compounds that are thought to have medicinal properties.
Many studies suggest that holy basil may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects which make it useful for treating various conditions.
Studies have also found that holy basil may help improve mental clarity(1) and reduce anxiety(2) by influencing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and GABA.
Additionally, some studies suggest that holy basil can help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes(3) by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas.
Finally, research suggests that holy basil may be effective at reducing high cholesterol levels(4) by inhibiting the absorption of dietary cholesterol into the bloodstream.
Judgefloro, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
1. Holy Basil Health Benefits include Mental Clarity
Due to its adaptogenic properties, holy basil can help to reduce stress hormones, while increasing antioxidant effects to the brain. This allows people to maintain mental clarity and focus through moments of high stress.
If you’re looking for an extra boost in your studies or work projects, holy basil might be just the right superfood for you! Regular consumption of holy basil can help sharpen your focus and unlock energy that may have previously seemed lost.
Many cultures around the world have been using this herb for centuries to combat sluggishness, leaving them refreshed and alert each day. Its no wonder why people are turning to this natural remedy to improve their mental clarity!
2. Holy Basil for Reducing Anxiety
Holy basil is a powerful remedy for reducing stress and anxiety. Studies have found that when the leaves are consumed daily, the user may experience a calming effect on their body and mind.
This effect can be attributed to the high concentrations of eugenol, an essential oil which has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties. Not only does this oil help in reducing day-to-day stress levels, but long term use might even potentially reduce panics attacks associated with anxiety.
So next time you worry too much and find yourself overwhelmed by everyday stresses or anxious thoughts, chew on some holy basil leaves, or make a cup of tea, and feel your worries melt away!
3. Holy Basil Helps Lower Blood Sugar
By now you must see that Holy basil is truly a wonderous herb!
It has properties that can lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, making it a valuable tool to manage the disease.
How exactly does it do this?
One of the ways holy basil works its magic is by stimulating insulin production.
Another way is its ability to slow down glucose absorption in both the intestines and bloodstream – which helps to keep our blood sugar levels safely in check.
Its effects are similar to that of some pharmaceuticals available today, however its natural composition makes evading side-effects much easier for users.
Better yet, these amazing effects require just a few leaves of holy basil – be it brewed as tea or sprinkled onto dishes – and make this magical herb an essential kitchen staple for anyone with diabetes!
4. Holy Basil Benefits for High Cholesterol Levels
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is no ordinary herb. Although it has long been used in India and other regions of the world to flavor dishes and provide vital nutrients, some recent studies have shown the powerful effects it can have on cholesterol levels.
Research suggests that holy basil decreases triglycerides, LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind), and total cholesterol while also increasing HDL cholesterol (the “good” kind). Moreover, certain compounds found within the herb are thought to regulate glucose and cortisol production in the body—all of which could be beneficial to reducing cholesterol.
Whether being taken freestanding or added to an already-healthy diet with exercise habits, holy basil might just be a valuable ingredient for improving cardiovascular health.
What do cholesterol levels have to do with cardiovascular health?
High cholesterol levels can narrow one’s arteries, making it harder for blood to circulate throughout the body. This leaves the heart unable to pump blood as effectively resulting in an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
Keeping cholesterol levels in check is an important factor to consider in maintaining healthy cardiovascular health.
Fortunately, reducing cholesterol isn’t out of reach – it just needs a little dedication from all of us.
First, eating a balanced diet with minimal saturated fats is key, and exercising regularly, will give us the chance to keep our hearts working strong and fit for many years to come.
Second, supplements can also help!
How To Get Holy Basil Health Benefits
There are many ways to use holy basil as part of your daily routine to promote health and well-being.
You can find dried or fresh holy basil leaves in most health food stores or online retailers.
You can also purchase holy basil supplements or tinctures if you prefer not to consume the leaves directly.
Most experts recommend drinking 1–2 cups of tea made from fresh or dried holy basil leaves daily for maximum benefit. However, you should always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Precautions & Potential Side Effects:
Adding Holy Basil to your health routine can be beneficial, but it’s important to review potential side effects and precautions before incorporating this herb into your everyday diet.
Consuming too much Holy Basil may cause headaches, an upset stomach and dizziness, so the key is moderation.
Always talk to a healthcare provider before adding any supplement or herbs to your regimen, paying special attention to any medications you may take that could interact with Holy Basil.
It’s best not to take this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
All in all, if you use wise judgement when dosing with Holy Basil and make sure to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming, there are benefits such as improved energy levels and improved overall wellness that can be enjoyed without fear of negative consequences!
